We have read the numerous articles about Larry Tannahill's challenge
to the Lockney Independent School District's drug testing policy, and
we could not help but be astounded by the reaction of the local
townspeople.

It is our opinion that Mr. Tannahill is doing exactly the right thing
by raising this challenge. Our family has taken similar steps in
Oklahoma where our children attend school. Last summer we challenged
the Tecumseh School Board's drug testing policy that requires urine
tests for certain academic courses.

This is something that was not done on simply a whim. Going against
what seems on the surface to be a very popular decision by the school
board is indeed difficult.

We have been told more than once: "If your kids aren't doing drugs,
they shouldn't be afraid to take the drug test," or, "If I have to
take a drug test at work, my kids should have to take one, too."

What we are hearing is this: You must prove your innocence.

We could not disagree more!

We are proud that Mr. Tannahill has decided to take a public stand
against drug testing of the students in his son's school and would
like to show our support.

We also feel that those in Lockney who support him behind the scenes
should also support him in public.

In closing, we would like to share a quote from Supreme Court Justice
William O. Douglas that sums up this situation: "As nightfall does not
come all at once, neither does oppression. In both instances, there is
twilight. And it is in such twilight that we all must be aware of
change in the air - however slight - lest we become unwitting victims
of the darkness."

DAVID & LORI EARLS,
Tecumseh, Okla.